Obamas slip quietly into the Caribbean for some rest and relaxation

Barack and Michelle Obama have arrived in the British Virgin Islands after jetting in to the Caribbean on Richard Branson's plane.

The former first couple posed with staff at Terrence B Lettsome International Airport, the islands' main airport, on Monday night after a flight from California.

A photograph of the pair with their arms stretched around immigration officials and the local police commissioner appeared on social media after their quiet arrival.

They were then whisked away in a waiting motorcade to be taken to a nearby boat to complete their journey to Branson's private retreat, Necker Island.

Workers were seen loading the small wooden vessel with the couple's luggage before it launched.

Michelle Obama was earlier seen boarding Branson's Falcon 900EX at Palm Springs International Airport. Her husband also boarded, but was not seen doing so.

The couple spent the weekend relaxing at the home of Spanish ambassador James Costos and his interior designer partner Michael Smith after taking part in President Donald Trump's inauguration on Friday.

Details of their visit to the Caribbean were not previously shared but they are believed to be spending at least some of their time on Branson's private retreat, Necker Island.

The Virgin mogul was in the region last week but has since left to meet his newest grandson, Bluey. He celebrated news of the baby's birth on Necker Island, sharing a video of the special moment in an Instagram video on Monday.